A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Seville vs. Pamplona for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Seville or Pamplona?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Seville and Pamplona. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Seville

Seville is a beautiful, world-renowned, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and theater.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Seville and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seville or Pamplona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seville than Pamplona. Seville is bigger than Pamplona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seville is better known for its museums, theatre productions, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pamplona is more popular for its hiking. Seville is more touristy than Pamplona and is popular for its Moorish and Islamic architecture, its colorful Flamenco dancing, and its local tapas and wine. Also, Seville is famous for the Real Alcázar. Pamplona is well known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Seville different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pamplona and Seville. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seville or Pamplona?

Seville is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Seville are among the most recognizable in the world. This elegant city is filled with historic buildings and world famous architecture. From the iconic Catedral de Sevilla to the Real Alcázar and Plaza de España, there is an endless supply of world class sights around town.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

Is Seville or Pamplona Better for Theater?

Seville is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Pamplona is not a theatre destination.

Seville offers a number of shows and performances. Flamenco shows are a highlight for many visitors. You can sip wine and enjoy tapas as you take in this dramatic dance form.

Pamplona is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Seville or Pamplona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Seville and Pamplona.

Seville has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is filled with cafes that spill into the streets. Locals live their lives outdoors, and the cafe terraces are filled with chattering guests from breakfast until late in the evening. The food includes many typical Spanish favorites such as Iberian pork, stewed meats, and other local tapas.

Dining out in Pamplona is an experience not to be missed. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Seville or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Seville and Pamplona.

The nightlife in Seville has something for everybody. The excellent nightlife scene includes local bars, Flamenco shows, and student focused parties. The Triana District is a popular nightlife area, particularly for the Flamenco shows. There are also a lot of bars along Calle Betis and upscale ambiance can be found in La Alameda.

Pamplona offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Is Seville or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Seville is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Seville. Barrio de Santa Cruz is the old town of Seville. This is where you'll find the Jewish Quarter and many of the city's historic landmarks.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Seville or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is a great city for hiking. However, Seville is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Pamplona for the hiking trails. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Seville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seville or Pamplona?

Seville is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Seville is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There is a great combination of shopping streets, high end shopping malls, and local markets. Calle Sierpes, Calle Tetuan, and Calle Asuncion are some of the best places for shopping.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Seville or Pamplona Better for Families?

Seville is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Seville is a very kid-friendly city. There are parks where kids can run around. There's also the Seville Aquarium as well as Isla Mágica, which is a small amusement park. Other fun family-friendly activities include taking a boat ride on the Guadalquivir River and seeing a Flamenco Show.

Pamplona is a family-friendly city. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Seville or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Seville is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Seville is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic walks, beautiful parks, and world class attractions make this a truly romantic city. Couples will enjoy an evening out with dinner and a Flamenco show, or visiting the Arab baths.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Seville or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Seville and Pamplona are superb places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Seville. It's a well established backpacker destination with a large supply of hostels and plenty of eager travelers ready to head out on the town.

Pamplona is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Is Seville or Pamplona Better for Students?

Seville is terrific for students. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Seville. It's a top destination for international students who appreciate the many great educational institutions, beautiful year-round weather, and many festivals and evening activities.

Plenty of students visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Is Seville or Pamplona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Seville and Pamplona both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Seville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel through the entire city. There is also a tram system that has 4 stops and travels 1.4 kilometers.

Pamplona has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Seville or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Seville and Pamplona are superb when it comes to walkability.

Seville is a very walkable city. There are many parts of the city that are very walkable. It takes about 45 minutes to walk across the city center in its entirety.

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Seville Worth Visiting? and Is Pamplona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Seville?

How long in Seville or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Seville or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Seville than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Seville, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

Families should spend more time in Seville than Pamplona. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Seville, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Seville than Pamplona. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Seville that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seville than Pamplona if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Seville.

One day in Seville or Pamplona?

The beautiful city of Seville offers theater and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Pamplona, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Seville or Pamplona?

Seville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Pamplona, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pamplona has to offer.

Five days in Seville or Pamplona?

Seville is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Seville or Pamplona?

Seville is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamplona. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pamplona. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid.

When comparing the travel costs between Seville and Pamplona, we can see that Pamplona is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Seville Expensive? and Is Pamplona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seville or Pamplona?

Seville has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pamplona. When comparing the sizes of Seville and Pamplona, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Seville or Pamplona?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seville or Pamplona in the Summer?

Both Pamplona and Seville during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Seville is a little warmer than Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Seville averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Pamplona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Seville. In the summer, Seville often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Seville gets 360 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun.

Seville usually gets less rain in July than Pamplona. Seville gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seville or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seville and Pamplona. Many travelers come to Seville for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Pamplona in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Seville is a little warmer than Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seville in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Seville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seville usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during autumn. Seville gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Seville usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Seville gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seville or Pamplona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seville as well as Pamplona. Many visitors come to Seville in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Pamplona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Seville is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Seville average around 11°C (51°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Seville often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Seville gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Seville usually gets less rain in January than Pamplona. Seville gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seville or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona and Seville are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Seville for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the activities around the city.

Seville is a little warmer than Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Seville averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seville. Seville usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during spring. Seville gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In April, Seville usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Seville gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Seville